Advanced European Theater of Operations - Reviews

Reviews

A thorough review of Advanced ETO appeared in the September/October 2004 issue (#55) of Paper Wars (published by Omega Games), written by Rick Lechowich, detailing AETO’s sequence of play. Mr. Lechowich’s review serves as a nice introduction to the game’s engine, and he even touches on some actual combat mechanics (unlike Mr. Harvey’s designer’s notes, which only make scant mention of how the combat systems function.) What is more, Mr. Lechowich’s general overview is very positive, and is thoroughly unconcerned by AETO’s complexities (and even explains their necessity), but does acknowledge them (Mr. Lechowich does forewarn timid and new wargamers to be wary of Advanced ETO.) Nevertheless, Mr. Lechowich demonstrates a clear comprehension of the rules, and even a deeper understanding of their purpose with regard to World War 2. Much of his article appears to be filler, of a sort (a summarized facsimile of AETO’s sequence of play), but unwittingly reveals AETO’s depth of complexity as a result. Mr. Lechowich’s interest in the game and its detail shines through, and his excitement about AETO’s prospect for realism is delightfully infectious, especially to experienced monster wargamers that relish the kind of intricacies that Advanced ETO offers. Even casual wargamers that would become overwhelmed by AETO’s scope may become enticed to attempt to play it. For wargamers that love the challenge of dissecting historically themed rules, Mr. Lechowich’s overview conveys the clear idea that AETO is not as overwhelming as its lengthy rules might ostensibly suggest, and is even a rewarding experience, when all is said and done.

From the review:

Advanced European Theater of Operations combines good looks with size and combat system fun with a very large overlay of chrome to live up to its name. The game is indeed advanced and reflects the dedicated efforts of serious players, devoted fans, and the occasional rules lawyer. Depth and thoroughness in the rules is another reflection of the game’s complexity. This is not an introductory level game by any means. It does provide fans of the previous game a much deeper, involved, and realistic look at the strategic issues facing both sides in World War II.

The Summer 2006 Issue (#142) of “Fire & Movement” (published by Decision Games) includes an Example of Play article, written by Darin Leviloff, recreating the German assault on Crete (a scenario included in AETO), and detailing the combined arms challenges of the historical battle for that Greek island in 1941. Mr. Leviloff’s articulation of the relevant AETO rules is well-elucidated, and he gives readers a good ‘feel’ for AETO’s intricacies, and particularly AETO’s remarkable ability to simulate the air, land and naval aspects of warfare during World War 2, especially as they interact with one another. The article is an impressive demonstration of command of the rules, and proper strategy within the context of a difficult battle (e.g., as in reality, the German sea-borne forces will find it very difficult to reach Crete, whereas the British forces will have difficulty repelling the German airborne assault there.) Is it noteworthy to add that most AETO players regard the ‘Crete’ scenario as the most popular.